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What Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing? What Can I Expect? CO2 Laser Resurfacing FAQ The Recovery Process Why Choose Me?

Restore Your Skin’s Vitality

More than just addressing your skin concerns, CO2 laser resurfacing in Orlando at Oppenheimer Plastic Surgery revitalizes your confidence and helps you embrace a more radiant version of yourself. As your nurse practitioner, I love guiding my patients through this transformative experience. Imagine the joy of seeing your skin regain its natural glow, the texture smoothing out, and those concerns that may have lingered becoming a thing of the past. 

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What Is CO2 Laser Resurfacing?

CO2 laser resurfacing is a state-of-the-art treatment that gives your skin a radiant makeover. Imagine it as a gentle reset button, using a specialized laser to remove tired, damaged layers and unveil fresh, vibrant skin beneath. This innovative approach tackles wrinkles, fine lines, acne scars, age spots, and uneven skin tone with precision. The process encourages your skin to bounce back, boosting collagen and elastin production for a naturally youthful look. 

Ablative vs. Non-Ablative Laser Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing is a broad term for laser treatments that improve common skin concerns such as sun damage, acne, acne scarring, melasma, fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and more. Lasers are either ablative or non-ablative. Ablative lasers like carbon dioxide (CO2) remove the outside layers of your skin. This is similar to a skin peel, where there is more redness and more recovery. A non-ablative laser does not remove skin layers but instead uses pulsed light to treat skin conditions. At Oppenheimer Plastic Surgery, we offer multiple laser methods to target different skin concerns in Orlando. Sometimes, a combination of lasers is recommended, depending on your goals.

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What Can I Expect During My CO2 Laser Treatment?

During CO2 laser resurfacing, you’ll experience a warm tingling sensation. I always make sure to apply a topical anesthetic beforehand to keep any discomfort at bay, making your experience as pleasant as possible. Most patients find the sensation quite bearable, describing it as a temporary and mild feeling. Don’t worry; I take great care to precisely direct the laser energy to specific areas, targeting your treatment to prevent unnecessary discomfort. Your comfort is my priority, and at Oppenheimer Plastic Surgery, we’re committed to making your experience positive and enjoyable.

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CO2 Laser Resurfacing Can Treat Scars

Scars can also be improved with ablative laser resurfacing. If you have post-surgical scars from a tummy tuck or breast augmentation, we can resurface these scars to make them thinner and more smooth. You'll need 4-6 treatments, spaced every 6-8 weeks, to help your scars fully vanish. No need for complicated routines—treat your skin to a gentle cleanse twice a day using your fingertips. Think of it as a soothing ritual for your skin. Around-the-clock TLC using Aquaphor/Vaseline for the initial 14 days will keep your skin hydrated and happy. 

CO2 Laser Resurfacing FAQ

Am I a candidate for laser resurfacing?

What happens after the treatment?

Is there anything I need to avoid after the treatment?

What results can I expect from laser resurfacing?

Am I a candidate for laser resurfacing?

If you have any issues with acne, age, or sun-related problems, including fine lines or wrinkles around your eyes or mouth, you are a good candidate for laser resurfacing. However, anyone with active acne or very dark skin may want to find an alternative solution.

What happens after the treatment?

Expect a sunburn-like sensation hanging around for about 24 hours, along with redness, swelling, a bit of crusting, and even a touch of darkening. Don’t worry, your skin is working its magic and will heal in around 10-14 days. Pin-point bleeding, some clear/yellow drainage, and maybe a bit of itching might sneak in—totally normal! Your skin will be a bit sun-sensitive for about 6-8 weeks, so don't forget your sunscreen. Persistent redness, blotchiness, or dryness may make an appearance for a few weeks, but you can use tinted sunscreen or makeup after 7-10 days.

Is there anything I need to avoid after the treatment?

DO NOT pick, scratch, or rub the scabs or dry skin to avoid infection, delayed healing, scarring, and/or discoloration. Avoid letting the treated area dry out. Refrain from using retinoids, retinols, alpha hydroxy acids, or skin care products for two weeks after treatment. Resume slowly after 14 days as tolerated.

What results can I expect from laser resurfacing?

Final results can take months because the treated area needs to heal before you start to notice an improvement in your skin quality and appearance. New cells need to grow into place. The positive effects can last for years. However, keep in mind that your results will be influenced as you continue to age, which includes squinting and smiling and exposure to the sun.

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The Recovery Process

Recovery ointments, cleansers, and pain medications will be provided to improve your results and ensure the best recovery. We are available if you have further questions as you recover at home. Feel free to call our nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We make it our goal to make your recovery as comfortable as possible.
 
Here are some tips to keep in mind during your recovery:

  • You may find that your skin might be red or pink for several weeks, maybe even months.
  • It is normal for your skin to be dry and peel off after a few days.
  • Downtime can take up to three weeks.
  • You will need to modify your exercise activities. 
  • You can expect your treated skin to be red and swollen.
  • There may be some itchiness for a few days.
  • You can also use ice packs for pain relief.
  • After new skin completely covers the treated area (one or two weeks), you may use cosmetics to conceal any redness.
  • Keep your head elevated when you go to sleep; it will help to ease swelling.
  • Always wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher when out in direct sunlight.
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Why Choose Me?

As the devoted nurse practitioner, master injector, and laser expert at Oppenheimer Plastic Surgery, I’m thrilled to help you experience a transformation in your complexion with CO2 laser resurfacing in Orlando. Picture saying goodbye to fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture—and hello to total skin renewal and a boost in your confidence. With my friendly touch and a commitment to Dr. Oppenheimer’s belief in “gentleness in all things,” I promise to make your CO2 laser experience not just effective but also an enjoyable step toward a more vibrant you. Let’s unveil your most vibrant beauty together—contact our Orlando office today to schedule a consultation. 

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